Bathrooms have been screaming remodel since the pandemic, and let’s just say homeowners have done more than listen. As part of their installation, the number of homeowners getting tubs has skyrocketed as people level up their bathroom remodel game. As many strive to bring more relaxation into the bathroom, it is essential to have all the facts.
Getting a tub installed as part of your bathroom remodel is not a decision you make right off the bat, and we do not mean financially. Whether it is a freshly placed tub or remodeling an existing one, you need to prepare for installation. You can implement these straightforward steps to ensure your bathtub installation goes smoothly.
1. Assess Floor Strength
Before you rush to make any purchases, you need to determine whether your bathroom floor is strong enough to hold the tub. As a homeowner, determining whether your floor can support the weight of a filled tub can be tricky, so why not ask an expert to step in? Find a bathroom remodeler who can assess the strength of your floor and determine whether it is capable of holding the tub.
2. Check Building Compliance
Before purchasing a bathtub, always do your homework. The bathtub you intend to buy must comply with the state, country, and local building codes. You may be required to obtain necessary permissions if your property is part of the homeowner’s association; thus, be sure to read CC&Rs. Handle all permits before you begin any remodeling if there is a waiting period to avoid any details in your project.
3. Level The Floor
Is your bathroom floor space even? The level of your bathroom may not always be obvious. You may have to ask a professional to survey the floor to ensure it is even. To avoid rocking or cracking of the tub, ensure you have the green light to proceed with the installation.
4. Measure All Doorways
Will the new fit through the door? It is crucial to answer this question as early as when making the purchase. Measure your doorways and the hallways you plan to use when bringing the tub into the bathroom. To the measurement, add three inches on each side in case the tub comes in a bigger box and packaging that you will need to maneuver into the bathroom.
5. Check All Parts
Even the most reputable sellers sometimes mess up when it comes to packaging. When your tub arrives, double-check to ensure everything checks out. The tub model and all the parts listed on the website should be accounted for. Remember to check for cracks, chips, or any other defects. If the bathtub is not complete, contact the manufacturer immediately to facilitate the shipping of the missing parts. Some companies will require you to ship the item back before sending another, which could take time so wait until you have everything you need before installation.
6. Hire A Remodeler
The video tutorials that sum up bathtub installation in a few minutes can mislead an overconfident DIY homeowner. Bathtub installation requires the expertise of a bathroom remodeler. So if you have all the materials ready, you need to hire a professional to step in. A bathroom installer will handle the floor preparation, including demo work to accommodate the waste drains and plumbing. A little patience goes a long way in a bathtub installation, and we dare say the success of your installation depends on it. Before enjoying your tub, allow it to dry for the next 24 hours to avoid damaging it.
Conclusion
The proper preparation is the only way to ensure successful installation and like any bathroom revamp project, if you want it to serve you, it needs to be done right. While one can handle the installation, the process can be frustrating, especially without the required skill set. A bathroom remodeler with the experience will ensure the correct installation guarantees your money’s worth.